By Baptist Message staff SHREVEPORT, La. (LBM) – More than 250 members of the Northwest Louisiana Baptist Association’s churches came together to cry out to God to bring revival during the fellowship’s 7th annual “Call to Prayer.” Hosted by Woodridge Baptist Church, Shreveport, the Jan. 30 gathering brought together Christians of various ages and ethnicities to pray for law enforcement, the persecuted church, missionaries serving around the world, pastors and other church leaders. As in previous gatherings, this event was marked by prayer in multiple formats: from the worship center stage; in small groups around the room; and by individuals who pleaded with God for revival in their community, state and nation. Thirty pastors either shared a message or prayed for a variety of needs. The event also included a special designed time of prayer for area schools, teachers and students. The “Dads On Duty” from Southwood High School in Shreveport were present for a time of corporate prayer. These men recently were featured in national news reports for their efforts to have a strong male presence through daily visits to the school as a means to curb violence. REVIVE US Lane Moore, NLBA director of missions, reminded the crowd of the … [Read more...]

By Elizabeth Clark, LCU News PINEVILLE, La. (LCU News) – Alliance Defending Freedom Regional Director Shannon Kendrick addressed many cultural hot topics facing Christians during Louisiana Christian University’s first Christ Church Culture event of the spring semester, Feb. 6. Kendrick, who has served in senior executive roles in the federal government, regional economic development and congressional affairs before coming to the ADF, told the audience it’s never been more important to understand the cultural shifts that are occurring and to fight for freedom to practice and preach the Gospel. “Now, more than ever, we must know the times we are living in,” she said, “and listen to God to be relevant and effective.” Threats to religious liberty are happening nationwide, she emphasized. “Times are really different now, and church leaders are finding themselves in positions they never thought they’d be in,” she said. Kendrick addressed some of the most recent challenges to Christian faith and practice that the ADF has been involved in, including Colorado baker Jack Phillips, Houston Pastor Steve Riggle, Gaston College v. DeWeese Boyd, and Seattle Union Gospel Mission v. Woods. “We’re up against an ideological … [Read more...]